Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 12

Hazel snapped out of her daze, her cheeks flushing with heat.

Only then did she realize he was still holding her arm. They were standing so close she could smell the faint, intoxicating scent of pine radiating off him.

She instinctively took a step back to put some distance between them.

"I'm so sorry, I wasn't watching where I was going."

The man arched an eyebrow. His gaze swept over her face, and his smile deepened as he stepped aside to give her room.

Hazel was just about to leave when someone yanked her arm from behind.

Julian had caught up. His face was thunderous, but when he looked at the stranger, his tone immediately shifted to total reverence. "Mr. Thornton. Please, after you."

Hazel's heart skipped a beat. This was Marcus Thornton?

The elusive CEO of Apex Holdings she had been desperately trying to meet? The only man who could save her late mentor's project from going under?

Hazel stood rooted to the spot, her heart hammering wildly against her ribs.

She had imagined countless scenarios for meeting Marcus Thornton. She had rehearsed her pitch over and over, but she never expected it to happen like this.

Marcus's gaze slid past Julian with a lazy, dismissive nod of acknowledgment.

Then, his eyes drifted back to Hazel. The corner of his mouth ticked up in a meaningful smirk. "Mrs. Hayes?"

Julian's expression tightened. He instantly forced a laugh and denied it. "Just a friend."

Hazel's stomach dropped, but she didn't have the luxury of caring about Julian's betrayal. She stared at Marcus. This was her only shot.

If she missed him tonight, she might never get another chance.

Julian reached out to pull her away. "Hazel, don't block Mr. Thornton's way. Let's go."

Hazel shook off his hand and took a bold step forward, blocking Marcus's path.

"Mr. Thornton, could you take me inside?"

Marcus raised an eyebrow, his eyes slowly raking over her face. He tilted his head slightly toward his entourage. Catching the silent cue, his assistants and executives immediately walked into the venue ahead of him.

Soon, it was just the three of them left at the entrance, with a few security guards standing a short distance away.

"Let's talk inside. It's not convenient here."

Marcus stared at her, his gaze so sharp it felt like he was slicing her open.

He spoke lightly. "Fine. However..."

He paused, leaning down until his lips were right beside her ear. His warm breath brushed against her skin, carrying the crisp scent of cedar.

"If this secret of yours doesn't impress me."

His voice dropped to a lethal whisper meant only for her. "I can't guarantee you'll walk out of here in one piece."

Hazel's breath hitched. She looked up, meeting his eyes.

They were still crinkled in a smile, but the icy threat behind them was undeniable.

She knew he wasn't joking. But there was no turning back now.

Marcus straightened up, his smile returning to full force as he gestured toward the door. "After you."